NFL Week 1 Kicks Off with New Coaches and Returning Stars

The NFL’s 107th season has begun, leaving behind weeks of training camps, preseason games, and roster changes. The season started with a Wednesday night game where the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 13-10, despite losing quarterback Sam Darnold early to a hip injury. On Thursday, the San Francisco 49ers faced off against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia’s first NFL game, winning 27-7. The week will wrap up on Monday night with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Denver Broncos.

New Coaches, New Opportunities

Ten NFL teams start the season under new head coaches, aiming to reach new achievements. Joe Brady is now head coach of the Buffalo Bills after Sean McDermott’s nine-season tenure. The Baltimore Ravens move on from John Harbaugh, welcoming Jesse Minter, formerly of the Los Angeles Chargers. The New York Giants, after many rough seasons, hope Harbaugh can turn things around.

In Pittsburgh, Mike McCarthy teams up again with Aaron Rodgers, targeting a future of victory for the Steelers and the veteran quarterback. The Atlanta Falcons broke an eight-year losing streak, counting on Kevin Stefanski to lead the way, while his former team, the Browns, chose Todd Monken to navigate their quarterback challenges. Additional teams like the Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, and Las Vegas Raiders also embark on new paths.

Historically, ten teams have made the playoffs with a first-year head coach in the past five seasons. Which team will shine this week?

Players Making a Comeback

Significant players return from injuries that shortened their 2025 seasons, eager to elevate their teams. Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, after an electrifying rookie season, returns after the Commanders missed 12 games last year. Daniels aims for redemption against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Deshaun Watson returns to the Browns after a 22-month recovery. After a tumultuous preseason, Watson beat Shedeur Sanders for starting quarterback in Jacksonville. Entering the final year of a big contract, Watson aims to prove himself.

Kyler Murray joins the Minnesota Vikings after a previous foot injury. Murray competes to pair with coach Kevin O’Connell’s top-tier defense and aims for a playoff spot. The Indianapolis Colts welcome back Daniel Jones, who brought high offense stats before an Achilles tear last year. The Colts aim for playoffs once again.

Patrick Mahomes returns from a season-ending knee injury. The Chiefs’ former MVP quarterback resumes his mission to extend the franchise’s dynasty with a prime time matchup.

Starting Strong in Week 1

Week 1 offers opportunities for players handling intense scrutiny. Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud faces questions after a playoff meltdown. Without a long-term extension, Stroud hopes a strong performance against the Buffalo Bills gains confidence and support.

Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers similarly aims to secure his future. Young had a challenging start but ended last season on a high note by bringing the Panthers to the playoffs. He will go head-to-head with Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears, who also seeks improvement.

Meanwhile, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen chase their first Super Bowl win. Jackson and Allen each with MVP titles and new coaches hope to surpass previous limitations. Burrow, a Super Bowl near-miss and injury-prone, also aspires to overcome setbacks.

Coaches Under Pressure

A few coaches face increasing pressure needing strong start performances. Aaron Glenn of the New York Jets faces expectations to vastly improve after a poor first season. They start against Glenn’s predecessor, Robert Saleh, with the Titans.

Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders seeks to bounce back from a lackluster year. Injuries slow the offensive line, but a healthy QB Daniels aids their odds. Todd Bowles of Tampa Bay Buccaneers aims to recover from a mid-season downfall. Reinforcements from drafts and free agents suggest a comeback opportunity.

Detroit Lions’ coach Dan Campbell eyes a return to the NFC’s top. After missing playoffs last year, coordinator changes, retirements, and injury redemption hope to push this Lions team.